Khan, Chaka (1953–)

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Khan, Chaka (1953–)

African-American rhythm-and-blues singer. Born Yvette Marie Stevens, Mar 23, 1953, in Great Lakes, IL; sister of singers Taka Boom (of Undisputed Truth and The Glass Family) and Mark Stevens (of Jamaica Boys); m. Hassan Khan, 1970 (div. 1971); m. Richard Holland, 1974 (div. 1980); m. Doug Rasheed, 2001; children: (2nd m.) Damien Holland; (with Rahsaan Morris) daughter Milini Khan (b. 1973, was a member of group Pretty in Pink).

Formed 1st band, the Crystalettes, at 11 (1964); toured briefly with Mary Wells (late 1960s); took African name Chaka, meaning fire (late 1960s); cofounded band Rufus (1972); sang vocals on several Rufus albums, including Rags to Rufus (1974) and Street Player (1978); debuted as solo artist with album Chaka (1978), which featured the single "I'm Every Woman"; collaborated with Stanley Clarke on album of jazz standards; scored biggest hit to date with cover of Prince song "I Feel For You" (1984); moved to Europe (early 1990s); earned Grammy for duet with Ray Charles, "I'll Be Good to You" (1990); collaborated with Brandy, Tamia, and Gladys Knight on hit single "Missing You" (1996).

See also autobiography, Chaka! Through the Fire (2003).